3.1 Introduction to Biodiversity

Question 1

Species Richness

Answer 1

The number of species in a sample.
(Don’t confuse with diversity)

Question 2

Species Evenness

Answer 2

Relative abundance of different species in a sample.

Question 3

Species diversity

Answer 3

Species diversity is a product of two variables, the number of species (richness) and their relative proportion (evenness)

Question 4

“N” in Simpson Diversity Index

Answer 4

The total number of individuals in a sample.
As opposed to “n” which is the number of individuals of each species.

Question 5

“n” in Simpson Diversity Index

Answer 5

The number of individuals of each species in a sample.
As opposed to “N” which is the total number of individuals in a sample.

Question 6

Simpson Diversity Index

Answer 6

A measure to quantify the diversity of a sample, taking into account species richness and relative abundnace.

Question 7

Monoculture

Answer 7

A crop or plantation dominated by a single species. Usually they have a low diversity.

Question 8

Genetic Diversity

Answer 8

The genetic variation observed between individuals in a population.

Question 9

Habitat Diversity

Answer 9

Also called ecosystem diversity.
The variety of habitats available in a given area.

Question 10

Relationship between genetic diversity and species diversity

Answer 10

A more genetically diverse species will show more resilience and adaptability to change, making extinction less likely.

Question 11

Relationship between habitat diversity and species diversity

Answer 11

Two-way relationship.
A larger range of habitats will provide a larger range of niches for a larger range of specie to occupy.
A large number of species carrying out a large range of different functions and having a large range of different impacts can lead to a large range of habitats.

Question 12

Biodiversity Hotspot

Answer 12

An area of the world with heightened biodiversity.